Boat dock with improved ingress and egress

ABSTRACT

The present disclosures relates to watercraft storage. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to boat docks/slips with improved ingress/egress via a dock guide system. The dock guide system can include a bracket and a roller. The bracket can be configured to couple to a portion of a dock. The roller can be coupled to the bracket. The roller can be located proximate a corner of the dock when the dock guide system is installed and arranged to face an entry of the dock. Upon striking the roller, the roller deflect a watercraft from the corner of the dock.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/921,056, filed on May 30, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present subject matter relates to watercraft storage. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to boat docks/slips with improved ingress/egress.

BACKGROUND

Boat docks and/or boat slips are used extensively across the world to provide a place to park a boat or water craft when not in use. A boat dock and/or boat slip also provides for mooring the boat, which provides protection from damaging waves and/or wind. Boat docks and/or boat slips are often nested and/or crowded together.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals may describe similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document.

FIG. 1 illustrates a plan view of a typical prior art boat dock with square entry corners.

FIG. 2 illustrates a plan view of a typical prior art cluster of boat docks with square entry corners.

FIG. 3 illustrates a plan view of a boat dock in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates a plan view of a boat dock in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates a plan view of a boat dock in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a detail from FIG. 5 in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a plan view of a dock in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates a plan view of a dock in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates a plan view of a dock in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates a plan view of a dock in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates a plan view of a dock in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIGS. 12A and 12B each illustrates an entry device in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates a plan view of a dock in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIGS. 14A and 14B each illustrates an entry device in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIG. 15 illustrates a plan view of a dock in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIGS. 16A, 16B, 16C, and 16D each illustrates an entry device in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIG. 17 illustrates a plan view of a dock in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIGS. 18A, 18B, 18C, and 18D each illustrates an entry device in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIG. 19 illustrates an entry device in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

FIG. 20 illustrates an entry device in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As disclosed herein, boat docks and or boat slips that are nested and/or crowded together in such juxtaposed proximity can make it difficult for users to safely and/or easily ingress and/or egress to and/or from moorings.

These issues can be compounded when the user wishes to back a boat or water craft into a boat dock or boat slip because the back end of the vessel is usually relatively square or blunt compared to the front of the vessel.

As disclosed herein, docks can be equipped, either retrofitted or during initial constructions, with entry devices that can minimize damage to watercraft entering and exiting docks. The entry devices disclosed herein can provide chamfered, rounded, edges to eliminate sharp corners that can exist when docks are manufactured. In addition, the entry devices herein can be attached to existing docks that may have sharp corners. The entry devices can include rollers, bearing, and/or moveable surfaces. The rollers, bearings, and/or movable surfaces can disperse energy from moving watercraft to minimize damage to hulls and other components of watercraft. In addition, the rollers, bearings, and/or moveable surfaces of the entry devices can act to increase the projected area of a dock opening and act as a funnel to guide watercraft into docks, thereby minimizing the likelihood that watercraft will strike sharp corners or other components of a dock that can cause damage.

In this disclosure, boat dock, dock, boat slip, slip, and pier can be used interchangeable to reference structures to which boats, jet skis, or other watercraft can be moored.

The above discussion is intended to provide an overview of subject matter of the present disclosure. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the claimed subject matter. The description below is included to provide further information about the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 illustrates a typical dock 100. Dock 100 has outriggers 102 that project from a rear wall 104. Outriggers 102 have sidewalls 106. Sidewalls 106 are parallel to one another. Sidewalls 106 connect with end walls 108. As shown in FIG. 1, the intersections of sidewalls 106 with end walls 108 form sharp corners 110 leading into an entry 112. As disclosed herein, sharp corners 110 can cause damage to the hull or other structures of a watercraft entering dock 100.

FIG. 2 illustrates a typical prior art marina 200. Marina 200 includes a plurality of docks 202. Each of the plurality of docks 202 includes a rear wall 204, sidewalls 206, and end walls 208 just as dock 100 described above with respect to FIG. 1. Sidewalls 206 and end walls 208 can form sharp corners 210 as described with respect to FIG. 1.

As shown in FIG. 2, marina 200 can be connected to and fixed to a shoreline 212. Various watercraft 214 can moor at marina 200. For example, watercraft 214 can moor with either their stern backed into marina 200 or with their bows pulled into marina 200. When navigating into or out of marina 200 (or dock 100), sharp corners 210 create a hazard and otherwise make navigating into or out of marina 200 difficult. For instance, when navigating any one of watercraft 214 into marina 200 watercraft 214 can strike any one of sharp corners 210. The impact with sharp corners 210 can damage the hull or other portions of watercraft 214.

Referring now to FIG. 3, FIG. 3 shows dock 100 from FIG. 1, which has been retrofitted with entry devices 300 (labeled individually as 300A and 300B) in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. Each of entry devices 300 can include curved portions 302 and supports 304 (labeled individually as 302A, 302B, 304A, and 304B, respectively). Curved portions 302 can provide relatively static entry surfaces 306 (labeled individually as 306A and 306B). In addition, curved portions 302 and surfaces 306 can provide a non-sharp corner or other pointed member, such as sharp corners 110 and 210 described above, thereby minimizing potential damage to watercraft as they egress and/or ingress dock 100.

The size of entry devices 300 can depend on the size of dock 100 and/or the size of watercraft that are expected to utilize dock 100. For example, docks sized to receive personal watercraft may utilize smaller entry devices 300 than docks sized to receive boats such as fishing boats or cabin class boats, which can have larger entry devices 300. In addition, the curvature of curved portions 302 can depend on the size of dock 100 and/or the size of watercraft that are expected to utilize dock 100. For instance, a dock for receiving a “jon boat” or an airboat which have a more squared bow as compared to a “bass boat” or speedboat with a hull designed for speed.

FIG. 4 shows dock 100 from FIG. 1, which has been retrofitted with entry devices 400 (labeled individually as 400A and 400B) in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. Each of entry devices 400 can include angled portions 402 and supports 404 (labeled individually as 402A, 402B, 404A, and 404B, respectively). Angled portions 402 can provide relatively static entry surfaces 406 (labeled individually as 406A and 406B). In addition, angled portions 402 and surfaces 406 can provide a non-sharp corner or other pointed member, such as sharp corners 110 and 210 described above, thereby minimizing potential damage to watercraft as they egress and/or ingress dock 100.

The size of entry devices 400 can depend on the size of dock 100 and/or the size of watercraft that are expected to utilize dock 100. In addition, the angle at which angled portions 402 are arranged relative to sidewalls 106 can depend on the size of dock 100 and/or the size of watercraft that are expected to utilize dock 100. For example, docks sized to receive personal watercraft may utilize smaller entry devices 400 that are arranged at a different angle to sidewalls 106 than docks sized to receive boats such as fishing boats or cabin class boats, which can have larger entry devices 400 arranged at different angles to sidewalls 106.

In addition, the angle angled portions 402 are located relative to sidewalk 106 can be adjustable. For example, pivots 408 can be located at the intersection of angled portions 402 and supports 404. Pivots 408 can be used to adjust angled portions 402. Locking pins or other devices can be used to fix angled portions 402 relative to sidewalls 106.

FIG. 5 shows a dock 100 from FIG. 1, which has been retrofitted with entry devices 500 (labeled individually as 500A and 500B) in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. Each of entry devices 500 can include floating portions 506 (labeled individually as 506A and 506B) and supports 504 (labeled individually as 504A, and 504B). Supports 504 can include brackets 502 (labeled individually as 502A and 502B) and linkages 510 (labeled individually as 510A and 510B). Linkages 510 can be connected to brackets 502 via hinges 512 (labeled individually as 512A and 512B). Just as with entry devices 300 and 400 described above, entry devices 500 can vary in size and other parameters depending on the size of dock 100 and the watercraft expected to dock at dock 100.

Supports 504 can allow floating portions 506 to free float. As a result, when a watercraft contacts surfaces 508 (labeled individually 508A and 508B) floating portions 506 can move as indicated by arrows 602 in FIG. 6. Movement of floating portions 506 can allow for floating portions 506 to conform to an angle at which a watercraft may strike surfaces 508. In addition, movement of floating portion 506 can allow for floating portions 506 to absorb and/or dissipate energy from a moving watercraft should the watercraft contact surfaces 508. The absorption and/or dissipation of energy can be accomplished by having floating portions 506 at least partially submerged in water and/or having hinges 512 be spring loaded. For example, having floating portions 506 at least partially submerged in water can allow the water to act as a damper of other motion restriction device so as to retard movement of floating portions 506. Linkages 510 can include hydraulic and/or pneumatic piston device, a resilient damper device, or any device that can provide a dynamic response and/or impact force absorption.

In addition to minimizing damage to watercraft, the energy absorbing nature of entry devices 500, entry devices can also protect dock 100 by absorbing energy from items that could otherwise contact dock 100. For example, entry devices 500 can absorb energy from trees, logs, or other debris that can be located in the water and strike dock 100.

FIG. 7 shows a dock 700 in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. Dock 700 can have outriggers 702 that project from a rear wall 704. Outriggers 702 can have sidewalls 706. Sidewalls 706 can be parallel to one another. Sidewalls 706 can connect with end walls 708. As shown in FIG. 7, the intersections of sidewalls 706 with end walls 708 can be formed by an angled portion 710, which can lead into an entry 712. As disclosed herein, angled portions 710 can be used to help direct watercraft into entry 712 thereby reducing damage to the hull or other structures of a watercraft entering dock 700. As disclosed herein the angle of angled portion 710 relative to entry 710 and/or sidewalls 706 can depend on the type and size of watercraft to enter entry 710.

FIG. 8 shows a dock 800 in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. Dock 800 can have outriggers 802 that project from a rear wall 804. Outriggers 802 can have sidewalls 806. Sidewalls 806 can be parallel to one another. Sidewalls 806 can connect with end walls 808. As shown in FIG. 8, the intersections of sidewalls 806 with end walls 808 can be formed by a curved portion 810, which can lead into an entry 812. As disclosed herein, curved portions 810 can be used to help direct watercraft into entry 812 thereby reducing damage to the hull or other structures of a watercraft entering dock 800. As disclosed herein the curvature of curved portion 810 can depend on the type and size of watercraft to enter entry 810.

FIG. 9 shows a dock 900 in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. Dock 900 can have outriggers 902 that project from a rear wall 904. Outriggers 902 can have sidewalls 906. Sidewalls 906 can be parallel to one another. Sidewalls 906 can connect with end walls 908. As shown in HG. 9, the intersections of sidewalls 906 with end walls 908 can be formed by recesses 910 (labeled individually as recesses 910A and 910B), which can lead into an entry 912.

As disclosed herein, entry devices 914 (labeled individually as 914A and 914B) can be attached to dock 900. Entry devices 914 can each include a floating portion 916 (labeled individually as 916A and 916B) and supports 918 (labeled individually as 918A and 918B). Supports 918 can allow floating portions 916 to free float. As a result, when a watercraft contacts surfaces 920 (labeled individually 920A and 920B) floating portions 916 can move as indicated by arrows 922. Movement of floating portions 916 can allow for floating portions 916 to conform to an angle at which a watercraft may strike surfaces 920. In addition, movement of floating portion 916 can allow for floating portions 916 to absorb and/or dissipate energy from a moving watercraft should the watercraft contact surfaces 920 as detailed with respect to floating portions 506 above.

Entry devices 914 can include linkages 924 (labeled individually 924A and 924B) and hinges 926 (labeled individually 926A and 926B). Linkages 924 and hinges 926 can be hydraulic and/or pneumatic piston device, a resilient damper device, or any device that can provide a dynamic response and/or impact force absorption as described above with respect linkages 510 and hinges 512.

Recesses 910 can allow floating portions 916 to rest flush with sidewalls 906. When a watercraft is docked, floating portions 916 can be secured in recesses 910 to minimize ropes or other parts of the watercraft from contact any sharp edges that floating portions 916 may contain. The result can be minimized damage to a hull or other portions of watercraft by contact with edges of floating portions 916.

FIG. 10 shows a dock 1000 in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. Dock 1000 can have outriggers 1002 that project from a rear wall 1004. Outriggers 1002 can have sidewalls 1006. Sidewalls 1006 can be parallel to one another. Sidewalls 1006 can connect with end walls 1008. As shown in FIG. 10, the intersections of sidewalls 1006 with end walls 1008 can be formed by a curved portion 1010, which can lead into an entry 1012. As disclosed herein, the curvature and size of curved portions 1010 can depend on the size of watercraft utilizing dock 1000 as discussed above with respect to curved portion 810 and dock 800.

Dock 1000 can also include entry devices 1014 (labeled individually 1014A and 1014B). Entry devices 1014 can include rails 1016 (labeled individually 1016A and 1016B) and rollers 1018 (labeled individually as 1018A and 1018B). During use watercraft can contact rollers 1018. Rollers 1018 can be mad of a soft rubber or other material that can be used to absorb energy and thereby minimize damage to the watercraft. In addition, contact with rollers 1018 can cause rollers 1018 to rotate thereby minimizing sliding friction between a hull or other components of the watercraft resulting in less damage to the hull or other components of the watercraft. The size and number of rollers 1018 can vary depending on the size and type of watercraft expected to dock at dock 1000. For example, for bigger watercraft, rollers 1018 can be larger than rollers 1018 used for smaller vessels. While FIG. 10 shows a single row of rollers 1018, as disclosed herein, multiple rows of rollers can be used to construct entry devices 1014.

FIG. 11 shows a dock 1100 in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. Dock 1100 can have outriggers 1102 that project from a rear wall 1104. Outriggers 1102 can have sidewalls 1106. Sidewalk 1106 can be parallel to one another. Sidewalk 1106 can connect with end walls 1108. As shown in FIG. 11, the intersections of sidewalls 1106 with end walls 1108 can a sharp corner as described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2, which can lead into an entry 1112.

As disclosed herein, entry devices 1114 can be attached to the corners formed by the intersections of sidewalk 1106 and end walls 1108. FIGS. 12A and 12B show entry devices 1114 in greater detail. Entry devices 1114 can include a bracket 1202 that can include tabs 1204. Holes 1206 can be used to fasten bracket 1202 to posts 1116 of dock 1100 via bolts or other fasteners. One or more axels 1208 can span between tabs 1204. Rollers 1210 can be connected to axels 1208. While FIGS. 12A and 12B show multiple rollers 1210 and axels 1208 arranged in a linear fashion, various embodiments contemplated herein can include a single roller 1210 and axel 1208.

Rollers 1210 can project past tabs 1204 such that a watercraft can contact rollers 1210 without contacting tabs 1204. Contact with rollers 1210 can cause rollers 1210 to rotate. The rotation of rollers 1210 can cause a watercraft to contact entry devices 1114 without scratching or otherwise incurring damage from the sharp corners formed by posts 1116 or the intersection of sidewalls 1106 and end walls 1108.

Rollers 1210 can be formed of rubber or other soft polymers to minimize both damage to a watercraft as well as corrosion or other damage from being in contact with or close proximity to water. Axels 1208 can be pressed into rollers 1210 or rollers 1210 can be overmolded onto axels 1208.

The size of entry devices 1114 can depend on the size and type of watercraft expected to utilize dock 1100. For example, for larger watercraft, such as cabin class boats, rollers 1210 and other components of entry devices 1114 can be larger than for docks designed to accommodate personal watercraft and/or smaller boats.

FIG. 13 shows a dock 1300 in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. Dock 1300 can have outriggers 1302 that project from a rear wall 1304. Outriggers 1302 can have sidewalls 1306. Sidewalk 1306 can be parallel to one another. Sidewalk 1306 can connect with end walls 1308. As shown in FIG. 13, the intersections of sidewalls 1306 with end walls 1308 can a sharp corner as described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2, which can lead into an entry 1312.

As disclosed herein, entry devices 1314 can be attached to the corners formed by the intersections of sidewalls 1306 and end walls 1308. FIGS. 14A and 14B show entry devices 1314 in greater detail. Entry devices 1314 can include a bracket 1402 that can include tabs 1404. Holes 1406 can be used to fasten bracket 1402 to dock 1300 via bolts or other fasteners. Entry devices 1314 can also include a plate 1412, vertical members 1414, horizontal member 1416, and a brace 1418. Plate 1412 can connect to bracket 1402 at a location in between a first end and a second end of bracket 1402. Plate 1412 can be bolted or otherwise fastened to dock 1300. Vertical members 1414 and horizontal members 1416 can be attached to plate 1412 and/or bracket 1402. Horizontal members 1416 and vertical members 1414 can include holes 1406 to provide additional fixation of entry devices 1314 to dock 1300. Brace 1418 can connect a first end of bracket 1402 to plate 1412 thereby providing additional support for bracket 1402. Brace 1418 can provide additional support to minimize deflection of bracket 1402 and potential damage to rollers 1410 should a watercraft strike rollers 1410 above the decking on dock 1300.

Just as with entry device 1114, one or more axels 1408 can span between tabs 1404. Rollers 1410 can be connected to axels 1408. While FIGS. 14A and 14B show multiple rollers 1410 and axels 1408 arranged in a linear fashion, various embodiments contemplated herein can include a single roller 1410 and axel 1408.

Rollers 1410 can project past tabs 1404 such that a watercraft can contact rollers 1410 without contacting tabs 1404. Contact with rollers 1410 can cause rollers 1410 to rotate. The rotation of rollers 1410 can cause a watercraft to contact entry devices 1414 without scratching or otherwise incurring damage from the sharp corners formed by the intersection of sidewalk 1306 and end walls 1308.

Rollers 1410 can be formed of rubber or other soft polymers to minimize both damage to a watercraft as well as corrosion or other damage from being in contact with or close proximity to water. Axels 1408 can be pressed into rollers 1410 or rollers 1410 can be overmolded onto axels 1408.

The size of entry devices 1314 can depend on the size and type of watercraft expected to utilize dock 1300. For example, for larger watercraft, such as cabin class boats, rollers 1410 and other components of entry devices 1314 can be larger than for docks designed to accommodate personal watercraft and/or smaller boats.

FIG. 15 shows a dock 1500 in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. Dock 1500 can have outriggers 1502 that project from a rear wall 1504. Outriggers 1502 can have sidewalls 1506. Sidewalls 1506 can be parallel to one another. Sidewalls 1506 can connect with end walls 1508. As shown in FIG. 15, the intersections of sidewalk 1506 with end walls 1508 can a sharp corner as described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2, which can lead into an entry 1512.

As disclosed herein, entry devices 1514 can be attached to the corners formed by the intersections of sidewalls 1506 and end walls 1508. FIGS. 16A, 16B, 16C, and 16D show entry devices 1514 in greater detail. Entry devices 1514 can include a plate 1612, plates 1620, a brace 1618, vertical members 1614, and horizontal members 1616. Plates 1612 and 162, as well as vertical members 1614 and horizontal members 1616 can include holes 1606. Holes 1606 can be used to fasten entry device 1514 to dock 1500 via bolts or other fasteners. Plate 1612 can connect to bracket 1602 at a location in between a first end and a second end of bracket 1602. Vertical members 1614 and horizontal members 1616 can be attached to plate 1612 and/or bracket 1602. Horizontal members 1616 and vertical members 1614 can include holes 1606 to provide additional fixation of entry devices 1514 to dock 1500. Brace 1618 can connect a first end of bracket 1602 to plate 1612 thereby providing additional support for bracket 1602. Brace 1618 can provide additional support to minimize deflection of bracket 1602 and potential damage to rollers 1610 should a watercraft strike rollers 1610 above the decking on dock 1500.

One or more axels 1608 can span between plates 1612 and 1620. As shown in FIGS. 16A-16D, axels 1608 and rollers 1610 can be arranged in an arch or other curved manner. For example, axels 1608 and rollers 1610 can for a curved of constant or varying radius with respect to a point located on plate 1612. Stated another way, axels 1608 and rollers 1610 can wrap around sharp corners formed by sidewalls 1506 and end walls 1508. As disclosed herein with respect to other roller/axel combinations, rollers 1610 can be connected to axels 1608.

Rollers 1610 can project past plates 1612 and 1620 such that a watercraft can contact rollers 1610 without contacting plates 1612 and 1620. Contact with rollers 1610 can cause rollers 1610 to rotate so as to minimize scratching or other damage to watercraft as disclosed herein.

Rollers 1610 can be formed of rubber or other soft polymers to minimize both damage to a watercraft as well as corrosion or other damage from being in contact with or close proximity to water. Axels 1608 can be pressed into rollers 1610 or rollers 1610 can be overmolded onto axels 1608.

The size of entry devices 1514 can depend on the size and type of watercraft expected to utilize dock 1500. For example, for larger watercraft, such as cabin class boats, rollers 1610 and other components of entry devices 1514 can be larger than for docks designed to accommodate personal watercraft and/or smaller boats.

FIG. 17 shows a dock 1700 in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. Dock 1700 can have outriggers 1702 that project from a rear wall 1704. Outriggers 1702 can have sidewalls 1706. Sidewalls 1706 can be parallel to one another. Sidewalls 1706 can connect with end walls 1708. As shown in FIG. 17, the intersections of sidewalls 1706 with end walls 1708 can form a sharp corner as described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2, which can lead into an entry 1712.

As disclosed herein, entry devices 1714 can be attached to the corners formed by the intersections of sidewalls 1706 and end walls 1708 or post 1716. FIGS. 18A, 18B, 18C, and 18D show entry devices 1714 in greater detail. Entry devices 1714 can include a bracket 1802 and plates 1820. Bracket 1802 can include holes 1606. Holes 1606 can be used to fasten entry device 1714 to dock 1700 via bolts or other fasteners. Plate 1820 can connect to bracket 1802 via welds or other fastening methods, such as bolts, rivets, etc.

One or more axels 1808 can span between plates 1820. As shown in FIGS. 18A-18D, axels 1808 and rollers 1810 can be arranged in an arch or other curved manner. For example, axels 1808 and rollers 1810 can form a curved of constant or varying radius with respect to a point. Stated another way, axels 1808 and rollers 1810 can wrap around sharp corners formed by sidewalls 1706 and end walls 1708. As disclosed herein with respect to other roller/axel combinations, rollers 1810 can be connected to axels 1808.

Rollers 1810 can project past plates 1820 such that a watercraft can contact rollers 1810 without contacting plates 1820. Contact with rollers 1810 can cause rollers 1810 to rotate so as to minimize scratching or other damage to watercraft as disclosed herein.

Rollers 1810 can be formed of rubber or other soft polymers to minimize both damage to a watercraft as well as corrosion or other damage from being in contact with or close proximity to water. Axels 1808 can be pressed into rollers 1810 or rollers 1810 can be overmolded onto axels 1808.

The size of entry devices 1714 can depend on the size and type of watercraft expected to utilize dock 1700. For example, for larger watercraft, such as cabin class boats, rollers 1810 and other components of entry devices 1714 can be larger than for docks designed to accommodate personal watercraft and/or smaller boats.

FIG. 19 illustrates an entry device 1900 in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. As shown in FIG. 19, entry device 1900 can be attached to an outrigger 1902. Outrigger 1902 can have sidewalls 1906 that connects with an end wall 1908. Entry device 1900 can include a housing 1930 and a plurality of bearings 1932. Housing 1930 can have one or more angled surfaces 1934. Each of angled surfaces 1934 can define one or more recessed portions 1936. Bearings 1932 can be attached to angles surfaces 1934 and/or recessed portions 1936. When attached to recessed portions 1936 only a ball bearing 1938 of bearings 1932 may project past angled surfaces 1934. The result is that should a watercraft contact entry device 1900, the watercraft will only contact ball bearings 1938, which will rotate within a socket 1940 thus avoiding the hull or other parts of the watercraft contacting a static surface. By having the ball bearings rotate, scratches and other damage to the watercraft can be minimized.

Ball bearings 1938 can be made of soft materials, such as polymers, rubbers, etc. As a result, should a watercraft contact ball bearings 1938, ball bearings 1938 can deform to absorb energy. The deformation can also allow for deflection of the watercraft back towards an opening of the dock.

Bearings 1932 can be attached to housing 1930 via a variety of methods. Bearings 1932 can be riveted, screwed, bolted, etc. to housing 1930. In addition, housing 1930 can be manufactured form a polymer and housing 1930 can be overmolded or injection molded around a portion of socket 1940 to secure bearing 1932 to housing 1930.

The size of entry devices 1900 and/or bearings 1932 can depend on the size and type of watercraft expected to utilize the dock to which entry devices 1900 is attached. For example, for larger watercraft, such as cabin class boats, bearings 1932 and other components of entry devices 1900 can be larger than for docks designed to accommodate personal watercraft and/or smaller boats.

FIG. 20 illustrates an entry device 2000 in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. As shown in FIG. 20, entry device 2000 can be attached to an outrigger 2002. Outrigger 2002 can have sidewalls 2006 that connects with an end wall 2008. Entry device 2000 can include a housing 2030 and a plurality of bearings 2032. Housing 2030 can a curved surface 2034. Curved surface 2034 can define one or more recessed portions 2036. Bearings 2032 can be attached to curved surface 2034 and/or recessed portions 2036. When attached to recessed portions 2036 only a ball bearing 2038 of bearings 2032 may project past curved surface 2034. The result is that should a watercraft contact entry device 2000, the watercraft will only contact ball bearings 2038, which will rotate within a socket 2040 thus avoiding the hull or other parts of the watercraft contacting a static surface. By having the ball bearings rotate, scratches and other damage to the watercraft can be minimized.

Ball bearings 2038 can be made of soft materials, such as polymers, rubbers, etc. As a result, should a watercraft contact ball bearings 2038, ball bearings 2038 can deform to absorb energy. The deformation can also allow for deflection of the watercraft back towards an opening of the dock.

Bearings 2032 can be attached to housing 2030 via a variety of methods. Bearings 2032 can be riveted, screwed, bolted, etc. to housing 2030. In addition, housing 2030 can be manufactured form a polymer and housing 2030 can be overmolded or injection molded around a portion of socket 2040 to secure bearing 2032 to housing 2030.

The size of entry devices 2000 and/or bearings 2032 can depend on the size and type of watercraft expected to utilize the dock to which entry devices 2000 is attached. For example, for larger watercraft, such as cabin class boats, bearings 2032 and other components of entry devices 2000 can be larger than for docks designed to accommodate personal watercraft and/or smaller boats.

The various entry devices disclosed herein can be constructed using a variety of materials and a variety of manufacturing techniques. For example, various components of the entry devices disclosed herein can be made of metals, polymers, ceramics, and combinations thereof. For instance, axels and other components that may conic in contact with water can be constructed of metals resistant to corrosion, such as stainless steel, brass, and other such alloys. Bearings and other components that can move can be constructed of wear resistant materials such as ceramics, polymers, metals, and combinations thereof. Components that may come into contact with watercraft can be made of deformable materials like soft polymers, rubbers, etc.

With respect to manufacturing, the various components of the entry devices disclosed herein can be fabricated using any number of manufacturing techniques and combinations thereof. For example, polymer parts can be injection molded, rotormolded, overmolded, etc. Metal parts can be machined, welded, powder coated, etc.

Additional Notes

The following, non-limiting examples, detail certain aspects of the present subject matter to solve the challenges and provide the benefits discussed herein, among others.

Example 1 is a dock guide system comprising: a bracket configured to couple to a portion of a dock; and a floating portion coupled to the bracket, the floating portion having a surface arranged to face an entry of the dock, wherein the floating portion is configured to deflect a watercraft from the portion of the dock upon the watercraft striking the surface.

In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 optionally includes wherein the floating portion is coupled to the bracket with by a support.

In Example 3, the subject matter of Example 2 optionally includes wherein the support includes a plurality of linkages and hinges.

In Example 4, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-3 optionally include wherein the floating portion and the surface are flat.

In Example 5, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-4 optionally include wherein a portion of the floating portion and the surface are curved.

Example 6 is a dock guide system comprising: a bracket configured to couple to a portion of a dock; and a roller coupled to the bracket, the roller located proximate a corner of the dock when the dock guide system is installed and arranged to face an entry of the dock, wherein the roller is configured to deflect a watercraft from the corner of the dock upon the watercraft striking the roller.

In Example 7, the subject matter of Example 6 optionally includes wherein the roller is one of a plurality of rollers, the plurality of rollers arranged in a linear configuration relative to one another.

In Example 8, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 6-7 optionally include wherein the roller is one of a plurality of rollers arranged in a parallel configuration relative to one another.

In Example 9, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 6-8 optionally include a first plate coupled to the bracket and a second plate arranged parallel to the first plate, the roller coupled to the first plate and the second plate via an axel.

In Example 10, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 6-9 optionally include a first tab and a second tab coupled to the bracket, the roller coupled to the first and second tabs via an axel.

In Example 11, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 6-10 optionally include a plate coupled to the bracket; and a brace coupled to the plate and a first end of the bracket.

Example 12 is a dock guide system comprising: a bracket configured to couple to a portion of a dock; and a plurality of rollers coupled to the bracket, the plurality of rollers located proximate a corner of the dock when the dock guide system is installed and arranged to face an entry of the dock, wherein the plurality of rollers is configured to deflect a watercraft from the corner of the dock upon the watercraft striking at least one of the plurality of rollers.

In Example 13, the subject matter of Example 12 optionally includes wherein at least two of the plurality of rollers are arranged in a linear configuration relative to one another.

In Example 14, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 12-13 optionally include wherein at least two of the plurality of rollers are arranged in a parallel configuration relative to one another.

In Example 15, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 12-14 optionally include wherein the plurality of rollers are arranged to form a curve proximate the corner of the dock.

In Example 16, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 12-15 optionally include a first plate coupled to the bracket and a second plate arranged parallel to the first plate, the plurality of rollers coupled to the first plate and the second plate via a respective axel.

In Example 17, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 12-16 optionally include a plate coupled to the bracket; and a brace coupled to the plate and a first end of the bracket.

Example 18 is a dock comprising an outrigger extending from a rear wall and intersecting an end wall to form a corner; an entry device comprising: a bracket coupled to the outrigger proximate the corner, and a roller coupled to the bracket, the roller located proximate the corner of the dock and arranged to face an entry of the dock, wherein the roller is configured to deflect a watercraft from the corner of the outrigger upon the watercraft striking the roller.

In Example 19, the subject matter of Example 18 optionally includes wherein the roller is one of a plurality of rollers, the plurality of rollers arranged in a linear configuration relative to one another.

In Example 20, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 18-19 optionally include wherein the roller is one of a plurality of rollers arranged in a parallel configuration relative to one another.

In Example 21, the docks, entry devices, systems, or method of any one or any combination of Examples 1-20 can optionally be configured such that all elements or options recited are available to use or select from.

The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls.

In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. In this document, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A dock guide system comprising: a bracket configured to couple to a portion of a dock; and a floating portion coupled to the bracket, the floating portion having a surface arranged to face an entry of the dock, wherein the floating portion is configured to deflect a watercraft from the portion of the dock upon the watercraft striking the surface.
 2. The dock guide system of claim 1, wherein the floating portion is coupled to the bracket with by a support.
 3. The dock guide system of claim 2, wherein the support includes a plurality of linkages and hinges.
 4. The dock guide system of claim 1, wherein the floating portion and the surface are flat.
 5. The dock guide system claim 1, wherein a portion of the floating portion and the surface are curved.
 6. A dock guide system comprising: a bracket configured to couple to a portion of a dock; and a roller coupled to the bracket, the roller located proximate a corner of the dock when the dock guide system is installed and arranged to face an entry of the dock, wherein the roller is configured to deflect a watercraft from the corner of the dock upon the watercraft striking the roller.
 7. The dock guide system of claim 6, wherein the roller is one of a plurality of rollers, the plurality of rollers arranged in a linear configuration relative to one another.
 8. The dock guide system of claim 6, wherein the roller is one of a plurality of rollers arranged in a parallel configuration relative to one another.
 9. The dock guide system of claim 6, further comprising a first plate coupled to the bracket and a second plate arranged parallel to the first plate, the roller coupled to the first plate and the second plate via an axel.
 10. The dock guide system of claim 6, further comprising a first tab and a second tab coupled to the bracket, the roller coupled to the first and second tabs via an axel.
 11. The dock guide system of claim 6, further comprising: a plate coupled to the bracket; and a brace coupled to the plate and a first end of the bracket.
 12. A dock guide system comprising: a bracket configured to couple to a portion of a dock; and a plurality of rollers coupled to the bracket, the plurality of rollers located proximate a corner of the dock when the dock guide system is installed and arranged to face an entry of the dock, wherein the plurality of rollers is configured to deflect a watercraft from the corner of the dock upon the watercraft striking at least one of the plurality of rollers.
 13. The dock guide system of claim 12, wherein at least two of the plurality of rollers are arranged in a linear configuration relative to one another.
 14. The dock guide system of claim 12, wherein at least two of the plurality of rollers are arranged in a parallel configuration relative to one another.
 15. The dock guide system of claim 12, wherein the plurality of rollers are arranged to form a curve proximate the corner of the dock.
 16. The dock guide system of claim 12, further comprising a first plate coupled to the bracket and a second plate arranged parallel to the first plate, the plurality of rollers coupled to the first plate and the second plate via a respective axel.
 17. The dock guide system of claim 12, further comprising: a plate coupled to the bracket; and a brace coupled to the plate and a first end of the bracket.
 18. A dock comprising an outrigger extending from a rear wall and intersecting an end wall to form a corner; an entry device comprising: a bracket coupled to the outrigger proximate the corner, and a roller coupled to the bracket, the roller located proximate the corner of the dock and arranged to face an entry of the dock, wherein the roller is configured to deflect a watercraft from the corner of the outrigger upon the watercraft striking the roller.
 19. The dock of claim 18, wherein the roller is one of a plurality of rollers, the plurality of rollers arranged in a linear configuration relative to one another.
 20. The dock of claim 18, wherein the roller is one of a plurality of rollers arranged in a parallel configuration relative to one another. 